Mineralized soil for planted aquariums

[Art]

Way back in 2016, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sean Murphy about mineralized soils. I had known Sean since the early APC days and knew he was an expert in the subject.

If you don't know what mineralized soil is, "Mineralized soil has many benefits for your planted aquarium. It’s a way to provide aquarium plants with a nutrient-rich substrate while minimizing organics that could lead to algae outbreaks."

Here's what it looks like:


What do you guys think? Perhaps this is a way to provide some nutrient benefits to inert soils while avoiding some of the start up problems associated with soil substrates?

Sean made a nice summary of the process:

 

[Mr.Shenanagins]

I thoroughly enjoyed this podcast! Nice to hear the experience from the man who started the process.

Since I’ve re-entered the hobby it’s all I’ve used the past couple years. I’ve been experimenting with different soils and have a fresh batch I’m getting ready to rescape with. This was two scapes ago with high light and co2.

 

[JPog]

I thoroughly enjoyed this podcast! Nice to hear the experience from the man who started the process.

Since I’ve re-entered the hobby it’s all I’ve used the past couple years. I’ve been experimenting with different soils and have a fresh batch I’m getting ready to rescape with. This was two scapes ago with high light and co2.

I usually discourage people using dirt and they should stick to some form of AS. I just think so much more can go wrong using dirt. You have obviously mastered it's use and are able to not only have a planted tank, but a nicely scaped one too using good light. Your experience will add lots of value to the forum here.

 

[Mr.Shenanagins]

@JPog I don’t know about mastered haha but I’ve definitely enjoyed getting it to work to my advantage. When I started using dirt the first thought was, oh I’ll save money and not have to buy expensive AS. My first attempt years ago was a massive failure, a hydrogen sulfide, fart fest smelling flop. My drive to use it was a stubborn determination to not accept that I failed, and that it was a method that could be advantageous if done correctly with a little prep work and consideration. When I finally get my rescape underway I’ll document the progress.